Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Krivovirski Kačkavalj cheese, grated
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 pound Gouda cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden brown.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the Krivovirski Kačkavalj cheese, Gouda cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked asparagus to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 420
Fat per serving: 32g
Carbohydrates per serving: 10g
Protein per serving: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Krivovirski Kačkavalj cheese can be substituted with any other semi-hard cheese.
- Gouda cheese can be substituted with any other mild cheese.
- Asparagus can be substituted with broccoli or green beans.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a heartier dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese before baking for a crispy topping.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before cooking.
- Use a whisk to ensure a smooth cheese sauce.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the asparagus thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Krivovirski Kačkavalj is a semi-hard cheese from the Balkans region, known for its tangy and slightly salty flavor.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, tangy, and slightly salty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish to a larger meal.
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Region: Bulgarian